Florida Panthers becomes owner of the FlyQuest organization

Viola, a joint venture company that owns the Florida Panthers NHL team, announces the acquisition of North American esports organization FlyQuest. The Viola family acquired FlyQuest from Milwaukee Bucks co-owner Wesley Edens and the Fortress investment group. This is the first change in ownership of FlyQuest since the organization was founded in 2017.

Financial details regarding the purchase price of the North American club were not disclosed. According to the announcement, Michael Choi, FlyQuest's newly appointed CEO, will remain with the company despite the change in ownership.

Michael Viola, President of Viola Family Business: "We are excited about the future of the esports industry and have been drawn to FlyQuest's culture and drive to play for a greater purpose. We are excited to lead FlyQuest into the next chapter as a mission-driven organization that competes at the highest level as in North America and on the world stage."

The new owners of FlyQuest will reportedly continue the organization's vision of "showing greatness" through activations, partnerships, and expansion into other esports disciplines. The organization is currently represented in the League of Legends discipline with its franchise in the LCS, as well as in Super Smash Bros. Melee.

Last year, the FlyQuest team placed sixth and fifth in the LCS Summer and Spring Split respectively. Well, in 2020, the organization qualified for the League of Legends World Championship for the first time.

The Viola family is the owner of Sunrise Sports & Entertainment, the parent company of the Florida Panthers. The company acquired an NHL team back in 2013.